Le Creuset Enamel-on-Steel 12-Quart Covered Stockpot, Black Onyx

Le Creuset has added this enamel-coated carbon-steel accessory line to its famous enamel-coated cast-iron cookware collection. The new line features the same bright colors, but not as much weight--something to consider when you're trying to lift 12 quarts of hot liquid off the stove, even with two handles. Though lighter than cast iron, the heavy-gauge steel distributes heat evenly across the bottom and up the sides of the pot for even cooking and reduction of soups and stocks, and rapid boiling of water for cooking pasta. No kitchen should be without at least one big stockpot, and Le Creuset's new version is a stylish, practical option. --Schuyler Ingle